After unveiling the BJP’s manifesto for the November 20 Maharashtra Assembly polls, Mr. Shah also emphasized that his party will oppose religion-based reservation in the country.
Amit Shah Criticizes Uddhav Thackeray’s Alliance with Congress, Defends BJP’s Stand Against Religion-Based Reservation
In a speech on November 10, 2024, Union Home Minister Amit Shah addressed key issues ahead of the Maharashtra Assembly polls, set for November 20. Releasing the BJP’s manifesto, Shah expressed his views on political alliances, reservation policies, and BJP’s aspirations for Maharashtra. Here’s a breakdown of the main points he made.
Uddhav Thackeray’s Alliance with Congress Criticized
Amit Shah strongly criticized Uddhav Thackeray, the Shiv Sena (UBT) chief, for aligning with Congress, alleging that Congress leaders have disrespected Balasaheb Thackeray, the late Shiv Sena founder, as well as Hindutva icon Veer Savarkar. According to Shah, this alliance goes against the principles Balasaheb stood for, including Hindutva and cultural pride.
Shah questioned Thackeray’s alliance with Congress, challenging him to request Rahul Gandhi, a prominent Congress leader, to publicly appreciate Veer Savarkar. Shah argued that Thackeray’s political position contradicts the principles of his own party’s founder.
Opposition Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) Lacks Credibility
The opposition alliance Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA), which includes the Shiv Sena (UBT), Congress, and NCP (SP) led by Sharad Pawar, was described by Shah as lacking credibility. He said the trustworthiness of MVA has “gone below ‘pataal’” (deep underground), indicating that he believes they cannot be relied upon.
The MVA’s policies, Shah added, often disregard core ideologies and lean towards appeasement. He argued that the promises made by the MVA are aimed at gaining votes through political compromise rather than principled governance.
BJP’s Stand on Religion-Based Reservation
After unveiling BJP’s manifesto, Shah emphasized that his party does not support religion-based reservations. He stated that the Constitution of India does not allow for reservations based on religion and criticized Congress’s stance on this issue. Shah claimed that Congress had previously promised such reservations in states where it governs, and warned Maharashtra voters to be wary of this.
Shah pointed to a recent statement by state Congress President Nana Patole, who reportedly acknowledged the demand for reservations for minority communities made by certain organizations. According to Shah, this stance undermines the interests of groups like SCs, STs, and OBCs, for whom reservation policies were originally intended.
Mahayuti Alliance Faces Opposition from MVA
The Mahayuti coalition, which includes the BJP, Shiv Sena (led by Chief Minister Eknath Shinde), and Deputy CM Ajit Pawar’s faction of the NCP, is facing a challenge from the MVA alliance in this election. Shah contrasted the Mahayuti’s unified stance with what he described as the MVA’s inconsistent promises.
Shah criticized the MVA’s opposition to policies like the Ram Mandir, the Citizenship (Amendment) Act, and the Uniform Civil Code, which are considered significant for BJP supporters. He argued that the MVA is aligned with groups that prioritize religious appeasement and hinder the implementation of the Waqf Board amendments, which aim to bring clarity to property claims by religious bodies.
The Importance of Fulfilling Promises
Amit Shah emphasized that BJP’s promises are “etched in stone,” meaning that whether at the state or national level, BJP aims to fulfill the promises made in its manifesto. He assured voters that the BJP’s resolutions are taken seriously and, unlike the MVA, are honored when the party comes into power.
BJP’s ‘Sankalp Patra’ Reflects Maharashtra’s Aspirations
Shah described BJP’s manifesto, the ‘Sankalp Patra,’ as a roadmap designed to reflect and realize the aspirations of the people of Maharashtra. He noted Maharashtra’s rich historical and cultural contributions, mentioning how it has been a leader in the Bhakti movement, the freedom struggle led by Shivaji Maharaj, and the social revolution.
BJP’s Vision: Viksit Maharashtra for Viksit Bharat
The BJP has outlined a vision for “Viksit Maharashtra for Viksit Bharat” (Developed Maharashtra for Developed India). Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, also present at the event, called the manifesto a roadmap to achieve this vision, aiming to establish Maharashtra as a leader in progress, thereby contributing to a stronger and more developed India.
A Call to Evaluate Political Credibility
In his closing remarks, Shah urged voters to evaluate the contributions of senior leaders, specifically targeting Sharad Pawar. He questioned Pawar’s achievements for Maharashtra during his time as a minister in the UPA government, suggesting that Pawar’s legacy in the state lacks substance.
Shah also remarked that Pawar has a “habit of creating a fake mandate” and that Maharashtra’s voters are now aware of his tactics. He urged the people to reflect on Pawar’s contributions and to judge accordingly as they head to the polls.
Addressing Ideology and Integrity
Shah presented the BJP as a party committed to upholding ideological integrity, contrasting it with what he described as the MVA’s alignment with leaders who have disparaged foundational figures like Veer Savarkar and Balasaheb Thackeray. Shah asserted that the MVA’s poll promises are a deviation from core ideologies and represent a political move aimed at appeasement rather than genuine development.
In Summary: BJP’s Vision and Critique of MVA
In the lead-up to the Maharashtra Assembly elections, Amit Shah laid out the BJP’s vision for Maharashtra, positioning the Mahayuti alliance as the best choice for the state’s development. He criticized the MVA alliance for compromising on ideology and aligning with those who oppose key principles valued by Maharashtra’s people.
The BJP’s manifesto, Shah said, is a commitment to the aspirations of Maharashtra’s citizens, promising development, preservation of cultural values, and unwavering loyalty to the promises made to voters. With its focus on a “Viksit Maharashtra,” BJP hopes to gain voter support and continue its governance, bringing a united vision to Maharashtra’s future.
Stay tuned to Club4Celebs for more updates.
